New deals for Wigan trio

2011-08-23 11:44

London - Wigan trio James McCarthy, Emmerson Boyce and Ben Watson have all penned new contracts, the Premier League club confirmed on Tuesday.

Republic of Ireland's McCarthy, 20, who was named Wigan's young player of the year for both seasons since his arrival, has committed his future to the club for the next five years, with fellow midfielder Ben Watson, 26, penning a three-year deal.

Defender Boyce, 31, who is closing on the club's record tally of Premier League appearances, has signed for two years.

Latics manager Roberto Martinez said: "In any transfer window, all we often hear about are possible new arrivals and targets coming out of the blue and we can sometimes forget the importance of keeping a really competitive core of players at the club.

"We have been talking to several of our players and we are delighted to announce these first three, with hopefully more to come very soon. Having players commit their long-term futures provides the platform we need to build from.

"James is a young man with a very big future in the game, and it speaks volumes that he has chosen Wigan to carry on his football education. We are proud to have him as a Wigan Athletic player.

"Ben has grown to become a key member of the team over the past 12 months and has shown great maturity on the field. He is in the best moment of his career but I'm sure his best years still lie in front of him, here at the DW Stadium.

"As for Emmerson, what can we say? He is now in his sixth season at the club and is a true professional who continues to set the highest daily standards, he is an example to others around him and a true ambassador for Wigan Athletic."

Wigan have opened the season with draws against Swansea and Norwich leaving them 12th in the Premier League.